Just as you need to load up on your cleaning products when planning to spend the week on your hands and knees scrubbing floors, prepare to do the financial dirty work.

Start with questions, “Have I followed my budget, how much have I spent on nonessential items like coffee and going out to lunch? How much have I spent on rent and utilities? What am I earning vs. what I’m spending?” says Leslie Tayne, a Melville attorney, specializing in financial issues.